Meijer Records a Compostable Packaging First

Meijer became the first retailer nationwide to carry Earthbound Farm Organic Mini Peeled Carrots packaged by Bolthouse Farms in compostable bags.

The partnership with Bolthouse Farms — one of the retailer's longest supplier relationships — reflects the company's preference for offering its customers more sustainable packaging options, according to Ron Lovelace, director of produce for Meijer.

"The decisions we make today impact the world we live in, which is why we're committed to continual improvement through smart partnerships and innovations that benefit our customers and communities," Lovelace says. "We've been clear and vocal with our suppliers that we want to offer more sustainable packaging options, and if they can develop the packaging, we will partner with them."

The product can be purchased in each of its stores across the Midwest. The packaging is made from 100% renewable sources of canola and soy. The printed bags are certified home compostable by TUV, a globally recognized leader in sustainable packaging. The certification guarantees that the bags will biodegrade by a minimum of 90% by 26 weeks and 100% by 52 weeks in a backyard compost heap or bin.

"Bolthouse Farms and Meijer have long been partners in innovation and progress," asserts Karen White, marketing director, Bolthouse Farms. "Together, we're turning the page to a greener future, celebrating our shared aspirations for sustainable produce packaging and an exciting journey for our beloved carrot."

Meijer has a longstanding practice of integrating environmental initiatives into its daily operations, including making packaging more sustainable. In 2018, Meijer set a goal to add a How2Recycle label, which clearly communicates recycling instructions, on 100% of its True Goodness by Meijer products when the product has room for a label. Meijer met this goal in early 2023 when it finished placing this label on an estimated 500 products storewide. The retailer is also working toward making its Meijer brand packaging 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable, and is encouraging its suppliers to improve the recyclability of their own packaging.

"We're committed to partnering with our suppliers on innovations that push the industry forward," notes Erik Petrovskis, director of environmental compliance and sustainability, Meijer. "We're willing to go the extra mile to do what is right for the environment around us not because we have to, but because it's the right thing to do."

More information about Meijer’s sustainable packaging efforts can be found here.